Panda Passage, Calgary Zoo

Project Details

Panda Passage embodies the Calgary Zoo’s commitment to cutting-edge habitat design and wildlife conservation, with a focus on sustainability and adaptability. Designed around the concept of ‘panda-priority,’ the habitat creates a naturalistic mountain forest environment for the Giant Pandas.

The building has been in use at the Zoo for over 50 years. As part of the renovation, our team worked to retain the existing structure and reuse building elements. The design incorporates non-toxic materials, Forest Stewardship Council certified wood and repurposed material, including the large logs in the habitat that are deadfall collected from the Zoo’s Flood Protection Project. Since the adult pandas will be in Calgary for five years, the space is designed with consideration for future adaptability for the habitat of other species.

While the ultimate priority of the Calgary Zoo is the animals’ well-being, we also designed the space to promote an immersive and engaging visitor experience. Interpretive information on the Giant Pandas and their habitat, sustainability features, and Chinese cultural information is included throughout the exhibit. Natural light is maximized with Ethylene tetrafluoroethylene (ETFE) skylights—an innovative glass substitute material that, in addition to its high light transmission, offers structural properties, strength and a long lifespan.

Both the interior and exterior habitats feature lush landscaped forests, a mix of grassy and rocky terrain, as well as waterfall and stream water features to engage the Pandas in their play behaviors. In addition to specific exhibit requirements, the habitat respects traditional Chinese design elements. Feng Shui and biophilic design elements help convey the cultural significance of the Pandas.

The first project in Alberta to receive Living Building Challenge Petal Certification, Panda Passage exemplifies forward-thinking sustainable strategies. Four Petals were achieved in the certification including health and happiness, materials, equity, and beauty. Panda Passage features meandering pathways and multiple viewing angles making it easy for visitors to see the pandas and interact with each other.